iPad 7 (2019, A10 series) vs iPad Pro (2020, A12 series)

The iPad 2019, officially known as the 7th generation iPad, and the iPad Pro 2020, representing the 4th generation of the Pro line, are two distinct tablet offerings from Apple. Released in September 2019 and March 2020, respectively, these devices cater to different user needs, with the iPad Pro 2020 introducing significant advancements in display technology, processing power, and camera capabilities. Both run on Apple's iPadOS, providing a consistent software experience, but their hardware differences lead to varied real-world performance and functionality.

When considering the longevity of these tablets, several factors come into play, including their release dates and Apple's typical software support cycles.

• Release Timeline: The iPad 2019 was released in September 2019, while the iPad Pro 2020 followed in March 2020. This approximately six-month difference means the iPad Pro 2020 will likely receive major iPadOS updates for a slightly longer period.
• Software Support: Apple generally provides major iPadOS updates for about 5 to 7 years from a device's release. As of April 2026, the iPad 2019 can run iPadOS 18.7.7, and the iPad Pro 2020 can run iPadOS 26.4.1, indicating continued support for both models. The iPad Pro 2020, being newer, is expected to receive full software updates for a longer duration.
• Physical Durability: Both models feature an aluminum back and frame with a glass front. While neither is designed for extreme ruggedness, they offer a similar level of build quality for everyday use. The iPad Pro 2020's design, with its flat sides and thinner bezels, offers a more modern aesthetic.

The performance capabilities of these two iPads differ considerably, primarily due to their internal processing units and memory configurations.

• Processing Power: The iPad 2019 is equipped with an A10 Fusion chip, while the iPad Pro 2020 features the more advanced A12Z Bionic chip. The A12Z Bionic chip includes an 8-core CPU and an 8-core GPU, offering a substantial boost in performance compared to the A10 Fusion. This translates to smoother operation for demanding applications and complex tasks on the iPad Pro.
• Multitasking and Responsiveness: The iPad 2019 comes with 3GB of RAM, whereas the iPad Pro 2020 boasts 6GB of RAM. This increased RAM in the Pro model allows for more applications to run simultaneously without slowdowns and provides a more fluid experience when switching between apps or working with large files. Users engaging in intensive creative work or heavy multitasking will notice a significant difference.
• Storage Options: The iPad 2019 is available with 32GB or 128GB of internal storage. The iPad Pro 2020 offers a wider range of storage configurations, starting at 128GB and going up to 1TB, providing ample space for professional applications, large media files, and extensive document libraries.

The visual experience on these two tablets presents a clear distinction, with the iPad Pro 2020 offering a more advanced display.

• Display Technology and Size: The iPad 2019 features a 10.2-inch Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 2160 x 1620 pixels. The iPad Pro 2020 comes in two sizes, 11-inch and 12.9-inch, both utilizing a Liquid Retina IPS LCD display with higher resolutions (2388 x 1668 for 11-inch, 2732 x 2048 for 12.9-inch). Both maintain a pixel density of 264 ppi.
• Refresh Rate and Brightness: A key differentiator is the refresh rate. The iPad 2019 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The iPad Pro 2020 features ProMotion technology, offering an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, which results in noticeably smoother scrolling, more responsive touch input, and reduced Apple Pencil latency. The iPad Pro 2020 also offers a higher typical brightness of 600 nits compared to the iPad 2019's 500 nits, improving visibility in bright environments.
• Color Accuracy and Features: The iPad Pro 2020's display supports P3 wide color gamut and True Tone technology, providing more accurate and natural color reproduction, and automatically adjusting the display's white balance to match the ambient light. The iPad 2019's display offers vibrant colors but lacks these advanced features.

The camera systems on these iPads reflect their intended uses, with the iPad Pro 2020 offering a more comprehensive and advanced setup.

• Rear Camera System: The iPad 2019 includes a single 8MP wide-angle rear camera. The iPad Pro 2020 features a dual-camera system on the rear, comprising a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 10MP ultra-wide-angle lens, along with a LiDAR Scanner. This allows for more versatile photography, including wider shots and improved augmented reality (AR) experiences due to the LiDAR scanner's depth-sensing capabilities.
• Video Recording Capabilities: The iPad 2019 can record 1080p HD video at 30 frames per second (fps). The iPad Pro 2020 significantly upgrades video capabilities, supporting 4K video recording at 24, 30, or 60 fps, and enhanced slow-motion options.
• Front Camera and Audio: Both devices feature a front-facing camera, with the iPad 2019 having a 1.2MP FaceTime HD camera and the iPad Pro 2020 featuring a 7MP TrueDepth camera. The TrueDepth camera on the Pro model enables Face ID for secure authentication and supports features like Portrait mode for selfies. For audio, the iPad 2019 has stereo speakers and dual microphones. The iPad Pro 2020 elevates the audio experience with a four-speaker setup and five "studio-quality" microphones, providing richer sound output and clearer audio input for calls and recordings.